Melissa Tindell

Executive Director, Communications

Melissa brings more than 25 years of communications experience to her role as executive director of communications for the University of Tennessee System. She has lived virtually all of her life in Knoxville, Tenn., and is a proud graduate of UT Knoxville. While earning her Bachelor of Science in Communications, Melissa spent two years working for the UT Knoxville student paper, the Daily Beacon, as a sports writer and sports editor. She earned her Master of Arts in Strategic Communications from UT Martin.

Prior to joining UT, Melissa spent the last 10 years working in education as the director of communications for Christian Academy of Knoxville and public affairs director for Knox County Schools, the third largest school system in Tennessee consisting of more than 58,000 students and 7,500 faculty and staff. She also has prior experience working at Fortune 500 company and aluminum manufacturing giant Alcoa, Inc., as well as in a variety of communications roles for Covenant Health system. Additionally, Melissa spent six years working for Akins Public Strategies, as well as a stint serving as Oak Ridge District Director for then-United States Congressman Zach Wamp.

Most recently, Melissa graduated from UT’s Executive Leadership Institute, designed to prepare internal candidates for senior leadership roles within the University of Tennessee.

Melissa loves cheering on the Vols in football and basketball, and enjoys serving alongside her husband, Chad, as a volunteer and Stephen Minister at Faith Promise Church. She has one son, Christian, and two adorable dogs (Peanut and Buddy).